Mr Wong said: "SHPL (Sports Hub Pte Ltd) did an extensive review of all the options, including an artificial turf and the reason why it was ruled out is that, not withstanding what the member said about artificial turf gaining popularity around the world, there are still many top teams in football and rugby that will not play in an artificial pitch.

"The situation will change because artificial pitch is getting better, the technology is getting better, and acceptance is growing. So we are not ruling out completely, SHPL will continue to monitor and continue to assess whether this can be an option in the future."

He said that SHPL had "already made a public commitment" not to pass the costs to consumers or event organisers, and added the national sport agency Sport Singapore will ensure that the commitment is upheld.

The new turf will be grown at a nursery before being laid out in the National Stadium before Singapore hosts the 28th South-east Asia Games from June 5 to 16.